Protecting
the GW community from the risks of identity theft is one of the University's
top priorities. As a result, GW began eliminating the use of SSNs, wherever
possible, during spring semester 2006. The majority of University offices and
departments, including the Office of the Registrar, the GWorld Card Office, and
the Gelman Library System, now require the use of GWids, instead of SSNs.

However, SSNs will not be completely eliminated from GW's
information systems. Certain University departments that perform processes such as financial
aid, payroll, and tax reporting are still required by law to collect individual
SSNs

.

A GWid is an alphanumeric value used to identify an individual's records
within GW's administrative systems. Your GWid is the letter 'G' followed
by an eight-digit number.

Will Social Security numbers be completely eliminated from GW systems?

No.
SSNs will not be completely eliminated from GW's
information systems. Certain University departments that perform processes such as financial
aid, payroll, and tax reporting are still required by law to collect individual
SSNs